Preneeta Sharma
Shimla:
In a rare and potentially fatal medical case, doctors at Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC), Shimla, successfully removed a live leech lodged in the throat of a 55-year-old man, preventing what could have turned into a life-threatening emergency.
The patient, Suresh Dutt from Kangar-Dharyar village in the Pachhad area of Sirmaur district, had been suffering from persistent throat discomfort and noticeable voice changes for nearly two weeks. Initially seeking treatment at Maharishi Markandeshwar University (MMU), Solan, doctors performed a direct laryngoscopy and were startled to discover a black, moving object inside his throat. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, he was immediately referred to IGMC Shimla.
Leech Found Near Airway
At IGMC’s ENT Department, a detailed examination revealed that a live leech was attached dangerously close to the windpipe. Doctors warned that any delay or improper removal could have resulted in the parasite slipping deeper into the airway or leaving fragments behind — a scenario that might have led to severe breathing obstruction or infection.
An emergency foreign body removal procedure was promptly conducted. Demonstrating remarkable precision, the medical team used suction techniques to extract the live leech safely within 20 minutes.
Team Effort Ensured Success
The procedure was led by Assistant Professor Dr. Dimple K. Bhaglani, along with Senior Resident Dr. Raghav Nirula and Junior Residents Dr. Mayur Bagga, Dr. Nishant, and Dr. Kumar Saurav. Technical staff members Subhash Bali and Archana also played a crucial role in the successful intervention.
Doctors stated that if the leech had remained undetected for longer, it could have caused severe infection or even fatal respiratory complications.
Untreated Water Suspected
The patient has now been discharged in stable condition. Family members suspect the leech may have entered his throat while he was drinking untreated water from a natural stream near his village.
Medical experts have advised residents, particularly in rural areas, to avoid consuming unboiled or unfiltered water. They also urged people not to ignore persistent throat discomfort, unexplained voice changes, or breathing difficulties, and to seek immediate medical attention if such symptoms arise.
